Happy almost 2020! It’s hard to believe that not only is a new year rolling in tomorrow but we’re also kicking off a new decade! I feel like every year brings new hopes and excitement at what’s to come. But before looking too far ahead, I’ve been reflecting on all that the last decade brought so I came up with 10 lessons from 10 years.

I, like many people, had an idea of how my life should go. And ‘life’ had other ideas, turning me right instead of left, pausing instead of running toward an idea, bringing people into my life while pushing others out. So I learned, again, that your current path may not make sense nor be what you planned but that doesn’t mean it’s wrong. I’m trying to stop worrying about it making sense and instead embrace the journey, people, lessons. Even this year, despite facing my third cancer, was full of unexpected joy and love. And so far, the greatest lesson was learning to trust ME. Learning to trust my instincts, ideas, emotions, wants and more.

It’s been a busy decade, full of ups and downs, opportunities and challenges, laughs and tears. Finding solace in nature, feeling strength on a bike, stepping away from a relationship, facing a challenging third cancer, opening up to love, exploring new places, embracing a passion of helping others…these are some of the experiences over the past decade that shaped who I am today and taught me many lessons. Here are a few of those:

10 lessons from 10 years:

1. Trust your instincts. Be aware of what/who you want, not what/who society, your family or friends may choose for you. Choose you, choose happiness and love. It’s ok to say no – to jobs, dates, activities.
2. You can’t sacrifice your happiness for someone else’s. Don’t be a martyr thinking you’ll make another happy if you change who you are/what you like, because no one is truly happy in the end.
3. Love sometimes pulls you to unexpected people, at unexpected times – embrace it for what it is.
4. Don’t settle for being someone’s second choice or convenience. Whether friendship or romantic relationship, you are worth more than that. But also be aware of circumstances that may need someone to take space for something else, trusting that you’ll know if they’re meant to be in your life without taking advantage. Know the difference between closing the door and giving space for the future.
5. Tell someone how you feel because you may not get another chance. Do you appreciate someone in your life? Are you thankful for someone’s actions or presence? Have you fallen in love? Don’t miss the opportunity to share.
6. Take chances – in your career, adventures, love. Live without regrets. Stop waiting for the ‘perfect’ time because there is no perfect. You’re not too old and it’s not too late to make changes in your life or learn something new. If you’re toying with doing something new and different, say yes! You never know what will lead to the greatest happiness and success.
7. Explore….your community, state, country, world. Open up to new ideas, cultures, lands. You’ll grow so much as a person.
8. Helping others benefits everyone. Donate your time and talents to help others in need. Join a cause that is important to you. Be kind to another. I’ve learned that I am incredibly happy and content when helping others and making a positive difference in the world.
9. Seeking positivity, kindness, love, beauty, honesty can make the bad days bearable and the good days exceptional. Walk away from the drama. Thank someone for their perspective when it differs from yours or judges. Don’t let others’ negativity or blah outlook affect you.
10. Be you. I’ve never been more comfortable in my own skin as I am now. It helps me accomplish all these lessons and more goals. I still have a lot to learn, still seek personal growth and still look to embrace each day with excitement and optimism.

What stands out in your last decade? What are you excited for in the new year?